Equine Therapy

Dustin and Nemo 2009

Therapeutic Riding gives the rider a different, and enjoyable outlet to traditional therapy.

Therapeutic horseback riding, also known as Equine Assisted Activity or Adaptive Riding is for individuals with a broad range of physical, emotional, cognitive, and social disabilities. There are several different kinds of programs that utilize horses and horse riding for recreational benefits. Equine Assisted Activities are especially targeted for persons with disabilities.

We serve individuals with:

Down Syndrome

Cerebral Palsy

Autism

Tremors

Seizures

Spina Bifida

Multiple Sclerosis

Developmental and speech delays

Learning on horse back is fun! Most of the time, children do not realize that they are learning useful skills besides how to ride the horse! The rhythmic and repetitive movement of the horse mimics the natural movement of people as they walk. Using this movement on top of a horse naturally turns a persons hips and pelvis, encouraging the rider to sit up straight, and move in a rolling motion as if they were walking on the ground them selves. Using horses in therapy can help improve more than just mobility and balance!

Benefits of Therapeutic Riding:

Improves motor planning

Improves core strength

Improves attention span

Improves bilateral skills

Stimulates muscle memory

Teaches respect and patience

Introduces positive sensory activities

Teaches trust

Increases self confidence

Improves speech

Develops or improves social skills

Improves large motor skill

Improves fine motor skills

Strengthens spinal and pelvic muscles

Increases vestibular system by the 3 dimensional movement of the horse